Thinking of going to Fontainbleau as our one day trip from Paris. How does it compare to a "typical" French town of the region? Is it too touristy?
(For reference, we once made a day trip to Cremona from Milan nearly blind to see my partner's ancestral home, so we have a sense of adventure!)
Since it is popular amongst Parisiens as a weekend spot for the Forest, and has a stellar chateau that was home to Kings and emperors, of course it is touristy. But IMO, not nearly as touristy as some small French towns. There's plenty to see and do, but much depends on your particular interests, and the time of year. We were last there about 3 years ago in October and spent the morning at the chateau and then relaxed over a leisurely lunch in the town. I found this article from earlier this year that describes things to see and do:
Fontainebleau is charming with a pleasant vibe and has with the presence of the château traditionally also a more upmarket look compared to other towns in the region. It's touristy but not too to my opinion. Maybe during the weekend as CJeans notices, but have no experience with that.
I have visited it several times and certainly want to do this again if it happens being in the neighbourhood.
It is a rather pretty town, relatively well-off (so, nice shops), and it feels lived-in. There are tourists but it is not touristy, if it makes sense.
There is not much to see besides the castle, its park, and perhaps the main church, but a stroll in the streets of the town center is pleasant.
My recommendation would be to "see" Fontainebleau in half a day, maybe with lunch, and spend the next few hours in Moret sur Loing, but a leisurely day in Fontainebleau isn't bad at all!
